With spring in full swing, it’s time to start thinking about strawberry season here in the UK. The season itself depends on the weather, but generally starts any time in May and can last up until August. With an abundance of fresh strawberries, there are innumerable delicious baking ideas ripe to try.
Tips for buying and storage
Your best bet is to buy your strawberries from a local farm, or to visit a pick-your-own farm. While you can certainly get strawberries from Spain or even South America, British strawberries are best for flavor even if they might cost a little more. Look for unblemished berries with bright green hulls, signifying freshness.
If you’ve bought more strawberries than you can possibly eat, you can store them in your freezer. Wash, dry and hull them first, then place in an airtight storage container or bag. You can also coat them in simple syrup before freezing to ensure sweetness when thawed.
Sweet strawberry treats
If you’re looking for a recipe that lets fresh strawberries shine, try a strawberry shortcake, trifle or Eton mess. These desserts take advantage of the delicious pairing of fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
For a more traditional baked dessert, pair strawberries with their seasonal friend, rhubarb, for a flaky strawberry rhubarb pie. Alternatively, nestle one strawberry into each cup of vanilla cupcake batter before baking.
Working with frozen strawberries? Blend yogurt, honey, a splash of fruit juice and the frozen strawberries in a blender for the perfectly chilled summer smoothie.
